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Choosing the Right RV Generator

Mar. 22 2021 Buying Guide By Allan Dale Trailers & RVs

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If you are planning to go RVing off the grid or on the boondocking trip that you’ve been planning, you’re going to find this guide handy!

RVs are your home away from home, with modern amenities and features that add to your comfort while you are camping. By investing in a generator, not only will you manage to keep your RV fully powered but you’ll also enjoy all the appliances in it and the heating/cooling systems, even in the most remote locations. At Allan Dale Trailers & RVs, our service experts can help you install the right RV generator for your rig. If you are looking for RVs for sale in Alberta, visit our stores in Edmonton and Red Deer!

Determining the Power Requirements

Before you calculate the wattage, consider your RV’s fuel type. Compatibility is key to run the machine. If your RV runs on diesel, check out diesel generators only. Picking the wrong machine may involve a tedious and time-consuming return process.

Next, your generator should be able to support the full wattage of your RV. Consider all the appliances that you’d need the machine to power. Prepare a list to see which appliances you’d need to run concurrently and if their wattage matches the specs of the generator. This list will also let you know about the total expected consumption – tally it against the generator’s capacity.

Evaluate the options that you’ll have at the campground to power the generator. You could either use propane, gasoline, diesel fuel, or electricity to power it. Each comes in with its set of pros and cons – be sure to assess them before you decide.

Maintaining the RV Generator

To let it perform optimally and keep you safe, you’d be required to maintain the generator. Check the hour meter when the machine is experiencing a lot of use and change the oil every 200 hours of operation.

When not using the machine for months at a stretch, run a heavy load on it at least once a month to keep it functioning.

Following Precautions

Though RV generators supply non-stop power to your rig, they aren’t risk-free. Take note of the safety precautions highlighted below to stay safe and continue enjoying your trip.

  • RV generators can emit carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can be lethal to humans. Check your RV’s exhaust system regularly to see if there’s a malfunction or leak. Address the concern immediately and avoid using the generator till the issue is resolved. To ensure all leaks are promptly noticed, install a carbon monoxide detector. It will sound an alarm if there’s a leak - this comes in handy particularly when you may be sleeping inside the RV. 
  • As a best practice, place the generator 5-6 feet away from your camper, and on a stable and dry area. Place the generator exhaust in a way that it faces away from your rig and that of other campers as well.
  • Let it cool down completely before you pack it back into the RV.

We hope this was helpful. For more advice and help buying a RV generator for your camper, visit Allan Dale Trailers & RVs in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.